Top of the morning folks! I’m back on the Freedom Kicks after a lengthy trip to Australia and Singapore. I’m back on Eastern time, somewhat caught up on rest and back in the saddle. In Europe, we have the 2nd Champions League semifinal between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. Real, with the 3-0 lead on aggregate, seeks to join Juventus in the Champions League final. There’s also Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action tonight as well! Alright, let’s get into the rest of the news:
CONCACAF’s 2026 World Cup bid fast track plan denied by FIFA | Stars & Stripes FC
The fast track plan is on, but it’s on for all interested nations from CONCACAF, Oceania, South America and Africa. They have until August to launch a competing bid against the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the 2026 World Cup.
Check out Lionel Messi’s unreal jersey collection in his home | Fox Soccer
Lionel Messi, you ain’t special. I got about 700 jerseys in my collection...wait, I’m sorry? Those are...those are game worn jerseys? That he traded with some of the greatest ever to play the game? Oh...ok. Let me go sulk in the corner.
FIFA investigating Paul Pogba’s record transfer to Manchester United | ESPNFC
Paul Pogba’s transfer to Manchester United last summer shook the pillars of the soccer world, and now FIFA will investigate to determine whether rules were broken in securing the 24-year-old’s services.
Ramos names USA roster for 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Korea Republic | U.S. Soccer
A strong U-20 USMNT squad will head to South Korea this month for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Among coach Tab Ramos’ selections include D.C. United academy player Eryk Williamson.
Liga MX club owners set to approve cup with MLS this month | ESPNFC
Could Superliga be back? According to Atlas president Gustavo Guzman, it’s almost done and could be approved later this month at Liga MX meetings.
Steve Birnbaum may be back for D.C. United, but injury list remains long | Black & Red United
Steve Birnbaum was back at practice today (yay!) and according to our very own Steven Streff, Bill Hamid may be back in the fold tomorrow. Still, several players missed due to injury and coach Ben Olsen will have some decisions to make as he decides who will be in the 18 this weekend when the Black-and-Red take on the Philadelphia Union.
Inter Milan: Stefano Pioli sacked after six months as head coach | BBC
In #DCU sister club news, Inter Milan is once again looking for a new coach, after Stefano Pioli gets fired. Whoever takes over will try to get the Nerrazzuri into a Europa League spot in the last 3 matches.
Hit those comments, y’all. And, happy Wednesday!